South Americans Uruguay and hosts Russia were on Wednesday confirmed as the first two countries to reach the last 16 stage of the on-going 2018 FIFA World Cup.

A slim 1-0 victory for Uruguay past Saudi Arabia at the Rostov Arena was all important for the South American side on match 19.

Luis Suarez’s 23rd minute goal on his 100th appearance for the country separated the two sides.

Suarez became the first Uruguay player to score in three World Cups.

Saudi Arabia, the Green Falcons improved for the better from the opening day 5-0 defeat by Russia during the tournament’s opening game.

However, while they largely eliminated their defensive errors and enjoyed more possession than their opponents, they were made to pay for one lapse by goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais, whose misjudgement allowed Suarez to score.

FIFA Media

Uruguay and Saudi Arabia at the Rostov Arena at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia

Russia’s 3-1 win over Egypt on Tuesday means both they and Uruguay have collected maximum points from their two Group A games.